Top 20 Experiences in nelson
Best Abel Tasman Day trip
Our small group personalized day-trip is the best way to experience all the Abel Tasman National Park has to offer in comfort in one day. You get to meet other travelers and receive the personal attention of the skipper as we limit numbers to 5 couples or 11 passengers. Choose how energetic you want to be with plenty of activities on offer. Our cruise itinerary is flexible and our friendly, knowledgeable skippers are excellent at locating local wildlife such as New Zealand fur seals, Little Blue penguins and on occasion dolphins.We ensure you are able to learn about the history and ecology of the Abel Tasman while take in the stunning scenery. We cruise past Split Apple Rock as far as the Tonga Island Marine Reserve in the heart of the park where New Zealand fur seals bask in the sun. Then we find a sheltered bay with opportunities to kayak, go ashore for a bush walk, or just relax on board while we prepare a delicious platter style lunch with fresh local ingredients.
Golden Bay in a Day
Golden Bay is truly a hiden gem providing lots of incredible surprises. Departing your accommodation and the city we drive over the Waimea Plains in Tasman Bay through the vineyards, market gardens and orchards then forest on Marble mountain. This is a full day tour that never fails to impress and becomes a photographers playground with almost scenic overload proportions. Your every comfort is included from water, fresh fruit, tea, coffee and of course a gourmet picnic lunch as well as entrance fees into middle earth caves and the National Parks where your guide is privileged with special unique access. This day is renowned for the diversity of views and landscape formations from mountains, managed and unique native forest types. limestone and granite rock formations, incredibly clear water, estuaries, a waterfall and beautiful golden sand beaches. If time permits a stroll through the Takaka village will top of a fascinating day.
Self-guided E-bike cycle tour with private wine tasting
If you love wine and enjoy getting some exercise at the same time, this is the activity for you! We cater for groups, both large and small. This activity is unguided, but you will be briefed and have a map to show you the way. You can take your time and enjoy the tastes of Nelson at your leisure.
Full-Day Abel Tasman National Park Hiking Tour with Cruise
Abel Tasman Water and Walk is a small group tour for visitors who prefer faster access into the heart of this popular National Park so that they can spend more time exploring the many features with an expert interpretive guide who will highlight the less obvious features of Maori history, early settler activity and the endless stories that abound here, especially from the rich variety of vegetation, birds and aquatic life.
SKYWIRE Experience
The Worlds longest Flying Fox - you trip starts with a mini-bus journey up through the park to the launch platform of the Skywire. Your guides will entertain you on the trip up with facts and stories of the park and surround areas. The ride takes up to 4 people at a time and can reach speeds of up to 100km/hr. The ride takes you both forward and backwards, with 800 metres of gravity assisted freewheeling in each direction - combined with 700 metres of scenic journey in each direction, finishing back at the start after nearly 10 minutes of thrilling adventure.
Self-Guided Nelson to Mapua Cycle Adventure
This half-day self-guided cycle adventure takes in some of the most stunning scenery on Tasman’s Great Taste Trail taking approximately 4-hours. There are many fun stops along the way with award winning wineries, craft breweries, and the Pics Peanut Butter Factory to name a few. Cycle along the old rail route from Nelson City to Richmond then turn onto the picturesque Coastal Route to Rabbit Island and Mapua. It is all grade one riding (easy) where a moderate fitness level is required. A short ride on the Mapua Ferry has you landing on the Mapua Wharf where the vibe and atmosphere is very relaxing while you enjoy some great food and beverages. This is also a great day out for the whole family.
Tunnel to Town - Day Adventure Option B Nelson City
Kiwi Journeys are excited to release the new ‘Tunnel to Town’ tour. Construction on a new 5km section of trail into Wakefield is now complete allowing this amazing day of cycling, scenery and tasting. Today you will ride through the longest disused rail tunnel in the southern hemisphere, extraordinary mountain vistas, amazing scenery through farmland, orchards, hop gardens, vineyards, coastal estuaries as well as being able to sample world class food and beverages.
Nelson City Walking Tour - Guided
Nelson is a stunning, unique city in New Zealand, so whether it’s your first time in Nelson or you’re a seasoned visitor (or local!), our 1.5-2 hour ‘Nelson in a Nutshell’ city walking tour will bring this beautiful and diverse city to life. Your tour guides are all resident Nelsonians who know the hidden gems, and with a unique insight give you a true flavour of the real Nelson. Discover Trafalgar Street, Christ Church Cathedral, The Lord of the Rings Jeweller, Queen’s Gardens, Suter Art Gallery, the Centre of New Zealand and so much more in between. Prepare to be impressed!
Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Nelson
Explore over 20 amazing stops throughout Nelson, Brightwater, Moutere & Mapua! Visit some of the best wineries and breweries in the region! Have the freedom to hop on and hop off at as many destinations as you like and stay as long as you like! Some great special offers & discounts just for HOHO customers! Knowledgeable local guides, free map, bus timetable and stress free experience! We store your wines on the bus as you buy them. Discover Nelson, Brightwater, Moutere and Mapua on your own timescale as we showcase it’s scenic locations, iconic activities and the finest wine, craft beers and cuisine! At your own pace experience all what the beautiful Nelson region has to offer, while enjoying the gorgeous scenery, and of course the wine!
Quad Bike - Bayview Circuit
Our most popular quad bike tour - Explore over 14 km of beautiful native forest trails. Ride high to the hilltops, to spectacular coastal scenery, then down through the farmlands. Light refreshments included.
Private boat charter in Abel Tasman National Park
Our boat charter ensures you are able to experience the most of the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park in a day and in comfort. Hike, Swim, Kayak or just relax onboard. You can choose how you want to experience New Zealand's most loved National Park. Talk to the skipper to ensure they cater to your special interests or trust in their wealth of knowledge and experience. The park is truly remarkable and is renowned for its clear emerald/blue water, golden sand beaches, wildlife including the NZ fur seal and subtropical forests and is accessible only by boat or on foot. Our day charter allows you to make the most of your day whether with a group of friends and family or that special someone. Whether you want an activity full day or to just relax and take in the stunning scenery with a glass of wine. We cater to groups with varying levels of fitness and cater to the young and old alike.
Lord of the Rings Mt Olympus, South of Rivendell
Included in this adventure • Approximately 60 minutes flight time exploring the Kahurangi National Park • Two-way communication between you and your pilot • 1 x Mountain landing SIGHTS: • Lord of the Rings film location! • Unique land forms, habitats, plant communities and wildlife • Native bush • Breathtaking mountain landscapes
Waka Paddling Tour: Toka Ngawha Split Apple Rock from Kaiteriteri
Inclusive, enjoyable and great for all ages, our haerenga (journey) includes an easy 2-hour return voyage along peaceful coastlines featuring golden sand beaches and vibrant native forest as we paddle together towards the iconic Toka Ngawhā, also known as Split Apple Rock. Along the way we will share with you our knowledge of the beautiful Maori culture as you experience the empowerment that comes through working with a team. Our spoken blessings called karakia will provide spiritual protection for our voyage through this safe and stunning section of New Zealand.
Dragon Hunt Archery Experience in Pristine Native Forest
If you like to experience raw New Zealand but want some action with it – this is the tour for you! Learn to shoot the longbow and get to explore a native New Zealand forest that has been left alone by humans since the begin of time - classified as one of the most diverse nature areas on the top of the South Island: Nelson’s cleanest stream, giant towering trees, some of the largest silver ferns in NZ and an active bird life await you. Archery challenges will keep you entertained throughout the tour: Shoot realistic looking Dragons and other targets uphill, downhill over streams, between ferns and under trees. This is archery in a whole new format and unique in New Zealand! Your guide has 18 years of archery experience, is a certified archery coach, holds a NZ silver medal and a national archery record. You will get initial in-depth archery coaching and help to master the challenges in the forest archery course. Free photos and highlights of special nature features are included.
Quad Bike - Farm Forest Ride
Designed to suit all abilities, this tour follows native forest trails, progressing through fields and along the banks of the river.
Great Taste Beer Tour
If you love beer and fancy getting some exercise at the same time, this is the tour for you! We cater for groups, big and small. This tour is unguided, but you will be briefed and have a map to show you the way. You can take your time and enjoy the tastes of Nelson at your leisure.
Tunnel to Town - Day Adventure - Option A Via Mapua
Kiwi Journeys are excited to release the new ‘Tunnel to Town’ tour. Construction on a new 5km section of trail into Wakefield is now complete allowing this amazing day of cycling, scenery and tasting. Today you will ride through the longest disused rail tunnel in the southern hemisphere, extraordinary mountain vistas, amazing scenery through farmland, orchards, hop gardens, vineyards, coastal estuaries as well as being able to sample world class food and beverage. Choose from Option A, ‘Tunnel to Town - via Mapua’, or Option B, ‘Tunnel to Town
20,000ft Tandem Skydive over Abel Tasman
Have an epic time! Enjoy a scenic flight climbing to altitude-then the door opens and the adrenaline rushes as you free fall for over 40 or 60 seconds, depending on jump height chosen. When your parachute opens you gently fly over one of the most beautiful areas in the world. You are in great hands with the friendly staff and stellar safety record. Experience the best scenery, the friendliest team and an amazing photography package. Opt for the photography package and star in your own video and receive over 60 still photos (own expense). Capture some priceless moments to relive again and again.
4 Day Abel Tasman Getaway
Our tours are not only about experiencing the beauty of Aotearoa, they’re about bringing like minded individuals together and creating long-lasting friendships. Everyone’s welcome on a Backyard Roadies adventure, from solo travellers to couples and small groups of friends, we strive to create a safe, comfortable, fun environment while we explore our beautiful country together. Completely immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Abel Tasman National Park. Everyone from solo travellers to couples and small groups of friends are welcome, so join your new group of mates and enjoy sharing the outdoors kayaking, sailing, swimming, and more together.
Heli-Cruise Abel Tasman - The Best of Both Worlds
Included in this adventure: • Private, luxury one-way cruise to the Abel Tasman • Meet your private helicopter and board for a scenic flight over two National Parks, landing at high altitude to take in the breath-taking scenery • Gourmet lunch and local wines and beers are included SIGHTS: • The beautiful Abel Tasman National Park and Kahurangi National Park • Native Bush and Wildlife • Breathtaking mountain landscapes